Rory Jennings Left Baffled by John Obi Mikel’s Arsenal Criticism

Rory Jennings questions John Obi Mikel’s Criticism on Arsenal tactics as debate grows over Mikel Arteta’s set-piece strategy.

Rory Jennings has admitted he is baffled by the growing criticism of Arsenal after former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel launched a fierce attack on the club’s tactics. The outspoken talkSPORT pundit reaction demonstrates how divided opinion has become regarding Mikel Arteta’s title-chasing side.

The debate erupted during a discussion on talkSPORT as Arsenal continue their Premier League title challenge. Mikel, now a regular pundit, did not hold back when discussing the Gunners’ increasing reliance on set pieces.

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“No, I wouldn’t [like it] because for me it’s a cheat,” Mikel said.

“They’ve cheated their way to winning the Premier League… that’s not my style of football. I can’t do that.”

Mikel Labels Arsenal Approach “Illegal”

Mikel pushed the criticism even further by suggesting Arsenal’s approach was “illegal” and should be addressed by the Premier League if teams want to be recognised as true champions.

Despite acknowledging the creativity of players like Bukayo Saka, the former Chelsea midfielder argued that Arsenal look too rigid and overly dependent on corners.

Several pundits quickly joined the debate.

Former West Ham manager Alan Pardew claimed that if Arsenal win the league this season, the title could come “with an asterisk.”

However, Rory Jennings strongly rejected Mikel’s argument.

The Chelsea supporter admitted he simply could not understand the point the former midfielder was making.

“No, no, it doesn’t make any sense,” Jennings said.

“I don’t really know what point John Obi Mikel is making here. I just don’t understand it.”

Jennings even described the criticism as “disingenuous,” pointing out the irony behind Mikel’s comments.

He argued that the Nigerian midfielder played a key role in Jose Mourinho’s famously defensive Chelsea teams and often came on late in matches to help close games out.

Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strength Becoming a Title Weapon

Rather than criticising Arsenal’s methods, Jennings praised Mikel Arteta for adapting to the tactical challenges of modern Premier League football.

“What Mikel Arteta has done has been really pragmatic,” Jennings explained.

“He’s found a way to combat Pep Guardiola.”

Jennings also noted that many teams now defend deep against Arsenal, which makes expansive attacking football far more difficult.

Because of that, Arsenal have turned set pieces into a genuine weapon this season.

The club’s coaching staff have invested heavily in dead-ball preparation, turning corners and free-kicks into consistent scoring opportunities.

Critics may call the approach unattractive, but supporters argue that successful teams use every advantage available.

With the Premier League title race heating up, the debate around Arsenal’s tactics looks set to continue.

But if Arteta’s side go on to lift the trophy, Jennings believes the history books will remember the champions — not the complaints.

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